Well, if you are Durex Avanti you can be transformed at least three times.
As the world’s most widely distributed condom brand, Durex have a lot of strings to their pleasure bow: offering consumers an abundance of various shapes, textures, lubes and sex accessories to choose from. When it comes to latex free options, however, the company puts the onus on just one condom, yet even this single choice is not without confusion. Durex Avanti, previously the name of their latex-free rubber, is in fact a latex condom. The non-latex option has been recently rebranded Avanti Bare Real Feel™. In fact, this latex-free option has been through a few rebranding rotations.
In 2008, it was replaced from being made of polyurethane to synthetic polyisoprene. Polyurethane is a type of soft plastic; polyisoprene is the latest latex-free technology, chemically similar to rubber latex but without the proteins that cause allergic reactions (see our article about the differences). In Europe, the product’s current name is simply, and explicitly, “Latex Free”. The North America version, however, is not so straight forward.
Michael Gesek, from Durex Consumer Relations Canada, explained to Condom Monologues, that when multinational consumer goods company Reckitt Benckiser took over Durex in 2011 they lost supply of the materials to make Avanti Bare and thus it was discontinued in North America. Recently the polyisoprene product was secured again and is renamed Avanti Bare Real Feel. Besides the (longer) new name, nothing is different about this new polyisoprene rubber. It’s now rolling out on store shelves.
However, few consumers know that Durex did not offer latex-free condoms for a period in the midst of company turn over. In fact, Avanti Bare went from being made of polyisoprene to becoming just a standard latex condom. Yet despite this very dramatic product change, Durex kept the name and package similar to the latex free version- as if condom shopping isn’t confusing already!
As expressed by Melissa White, CEO of Lucky Bloke, this move was irresponsible and “a major packaging fail!” In response, Lucky Bloke listed a consumer warning on their site. It’s unclear what Durex’s strategy was for informing the public about this change. One may assume that when Durex lost supply of the polyisoprene condom, they may have sent a notice to selective distributors with the expectation that sellers would inform consumers. To the best of her knowledge, Melissa White does not recall any advanced warning from Durex.
So, please be aware that Durex does offer a latex-free condom now, just make sure not to pick up the former Avanti Bare and read packaging extra carefully!
This article is meant to clear up confusion around Durex’s non-latex options. We include a link to our affiliates at Lucky Bloke which may earn us a small commission.
That’s right. The overcrowded matrix of condom dimesions has been hacked and neatly reorganized by our techy team. Located in the top menu of our Home page under “Condom “Sizes”. This nifty tool allows you to custom search size, material, flavors, brands, etc., across 100 hundred condoms all in one place. It’s an upgrade from our archaic condom size charts in which you need to scrool lists and lists of products. The calculator does the searching for you and helps you pinpoint your preferences. Give it and try and let us know what you think! Updates and improvements are never ending. Go to the Condom Size Calculator.
A study published in June 2012 argues that penis shape and size must be taken more seriously by public health officials and activists who aim to increase consistent and correct condom use. Researchers Michael Reece and Debra Herbenick of Indiana University found a substantial percentage of men reported condoms being too tight, too loose, too short, too long, breakage, leakage…basically, general condom discomfort that can result in misuse or disuse, which translates into a serious public health issue.
The majority of condom products are fitted for “average” length at 6.4 inches when erect (see the Kinsey report and The Simple Truth about Erect Penis Size). However, as Reece and Herbenick found, length of the condom is not the greatest discomfort; rather, it is fitting around the head and shaft that scored highest among complaints, with penis base at a close second. For example, of those men who reported that condoms were too tight, 66% reported tightness around the base, 70.4% around the glans, and 73% around the shaft.
The study concludes that HIV and STI practitioners must get involved with condom manufacturers to ensure that condoms are consistent with men’s experiences of fitting and pleasure. Indeed, no matter what size, all men should have access to well-fitting condoms.
Quick Tip! The FC2 internal condom is one size fits all. Because it’s made to form to the inner walls of the receptive partner, penis size is irrelevant. This is a great solution for those fitting woes.
Sizing
To know which condom width fits, we recommend dividing penis circumference by 2.25.Here we explain where we got this formula.
Image from @TheyFitCondoms
Given the wide range of condoms on the market, prevention providers can play a valuable role in helping men to identify condoms that suit their size specificities, hence increasing the likelihood of consistent condom usage. For a large proportion of those who reported tightness around the glands (70%), for example, HIV and STI prevention providers may alleviate men’s perceptions that condoms all are too tight by recommending condoms that are designed with a more bulbous head to reduce constriction. As our chart shows below, Durex condoms and One Condoms tend to offer a greater variety in contoured shapes and head room.
Here we have organized a list of condoms according to the 4 “problem points” identified in Reece and Herbenick’s study. Under each complaint we provide a list of condoms by brand that may help alleviate discomfort.
Please note: External links may be affiliates that give us a small commission. This is not a company endorsement. Due to the fact that major North American brands are Durex, Trojan, Lifestyles, Beyond 7 and Caution Wear, our first aim is to gather these dimensions. We continue to update.
Slightly longer than regular condoms. Shaped with a secure fit in the middle and spacious head room.
Base width: 2.25″/ 56mm
Mid width: 2.28″/ 58mm
Head width: 2.4″/ 61mm
Length: 7.9″ / 200mm
Same length of regular condoms, but wider and large head with unique ribbed design.
Base width: 2.25″ / 56mm
Head width: 2.4″/ 62mm
Length: 7.4″/ 188mm
Ultra thin, vegan latex, larger condom.
A wider condom with regular length. Great option for shorter but larger headed guys (this is on the smaller end of Large-head condoms). Tapered flare shape that extends to a wide head.
Base width: 2.13″/ 54mm
Head width: 2.36″ / 60mm
Length: 7.5″ / 190mm
This is Caution Wear’s largest condom. Unlike other large condoms, this one is wider than regular condoms, but maintains the same 7.0″ regular length. Good for wider girth without the extra length. Straight shape.
Base width: 2.25″/56mm
Length: 7.0″/180mm
One of the longest and widest most famous condoms on the market. Made with an extra bulbous head and wider shaft width.
Base width: 2.3″/58mm
Head width: 2.7″/68.58mm!
Length: 8.3″/ 210mm
Tapered at the base for a secure fit and extends wider up the head for comfort. Suitable for guys who find standard condoms too short and too tight.
Base width: 2.13″/ 54mm
Head width: 2.5″/63.5mm
Length: 8.12″/206mm
Tapered at the base with spacious head for more comfort. Great choice if you need a larger condom but desire ultra thin latex.
Base width: 2.13″/ 54mm
Length: 8.12″/ 206mm
Uniquely large bulbous head and shaft for more freedom of movement. Ribbed on shaft.
Longer than regular condoms
Base width: 2.13″ / 54mm
Head width: 2.5″ / 64mm
Length: 8.1″ / 205mm
Tapered securely at the base with huge head space. Longer than most condoms. Tingling ginger lubricant (inside and out). Ribbed along shaft and head.
Base width: 2.0″/ 52mm
Head width: 2.5″/ 64mm
Length: 8.1″/ 205mm
Ribbed and studded for extra stimulation
Slightly wider contoured shape at base than regulars; fitted head without the extra length. More headroom.
Base width: 2.15”/ 54mm
Length: 7.9/200mm
First ever large-size polyisoprene condom.
Strong as latex but softer, more flexible material.
Ideal for people with latex allergy or sensitivity.
Wider base and shaft than the Magnum, but not quite as long. Slightly longer than average LifeStyle condoms. Straight classic shape. Ideal for thicker than average guys.
Base width: 2.2”/ 56mm
Length: 7.9”/ 200mm
A large condom without over-sized headroom. Wider and longer than regular Lifestyles.
Contoured pleasure shape to secure fit around shaft.
Base width: 2.2”/56mm
Length: 8.26” /210mm
Exclusive over-sized head room, but with the average length.
Stimulates most sensitive areas for both partners
Base width: 2.05”/ 52mm
Head width: a huge 2.9″ / 74mm!
Length: 7.5”/190mm
Classic straight shape (no flare or bulbous head). Wider and longer than regular condoms.
Made of vegan latex.
Base width: 2.2″/ 56mm
Length: 8.0″/ 205mm
25% thinner than Trojan’s standard condom
Close comfort fit around the shaft. Has the same long length as Magnums with snug fit around the shaft and slightly less head room. Good if one is looking for longer length, but not wider width.
Base width: 2.13″/ 53mm
Length: 8.0″/ 203mm
Is wider and longer than regular condoms. Classic straight shape.
Made of Polyurethane, which is more soft and elastic than latex.
Base width: 2.2”/ 56mm
Length: 7.9”/200mm
Very long. Tapered at the base for secure fit, wide bulbous head.
Special tingling and warming lubricant on inside and outside.
Base width: 2.13″/ 54mm
Length: 8.13″/ 205mm
Dry condom. (Great for oral sex).
Classic straight shape. Longer than regular sizes with standard Trojan width.
Base width: 2.1″/53mm
Length: 8.0″/ 200mm
Trojan ENZ Spermicide Lubricant
The classic ENZ long condom also comes with spermicide lubricant (not for oral use).
Base width 2.1″/53mm
Length: 8.0″/ 200mm
Tapered at the base for a secure fit and extends wider up the head for comfort. Suitable for guys who find standard condoms too short and too tight.
Base width: 2.1″/53.34mm
Head width: 2.5″/63.5mm
Length: 8.12″/206mm
The largest condom made by Durex
Classic straight shape
Compared to Trojan Magnum XL, Durex XL is wider at the base and longer, but smaller head than Magnums.
Base width: 2.3”/58mm
Length: 8.3”/210.8mm
20% thinner than standard latex condoms
Unique easy-on design shape to roll on smooth.
Contoured at the head with a flare shape to the opening.
On the larger side of the regular condom sizes in both width and length.
Base width: 2.1”/54mm
Length: 7.9”/ 200mm
Durex’s thinnest latex condom
Longer than the average condom, with slightly snugger width at the base. Suitable for guys who are looking for more width without the extra length.
Base width: 2.0”/5.1mm
Length: 7.9”/200mm
First ever large-size polyisoprene condom.
Strong as latex but softer, more flexible material- the latest in condom technology.
Ideal for people with latex allergy or sensitivity
Wider base and shaft than the Magnum, but not quite as long. Slightly longer than average LifeStyle condoms. Ideal for broader, thicker than average guys.
Base width: 2.2”/55mm
Length: 7.8”/200mm
Popular contoured shape that flares wide at the head, tapered at the base for secure fit. Suitable for men between approximately 4.54″ and 4.72″ erect girth (slightly greater length is normal for thin condoms to prevent risk of breakage).
Base width: 2.1” / 53mm
Length: 7.8”/ 200mm
Wider and longer than regular Lifestyles condoms. Not quite as long as Trojan Magnums. Suitable to those fit in between regular and XL length.
Flare shape for wider end.
Base width: 2.2”/56mm
Length: 8.3”/210mm
Contoured shape for tapered fit around the base and shaft. Is one of the shortest condoms on the North American market.
Base width: 1.92”/49mm
Length: 6.7”/170mm
Extra ribbed, ultra studded, uniquely shaped.
Uniquely contoured at head for his pleasure (see image here)
Regular condom length but closer fitting shaft and head.
Base width: 1.93”/49mm
Length: 6.69”/ 170mm
Beyond Seven
All Beyond Seven Condoms, except Crown, are less than 7.5 inches long. They also offer some of the thinnest latex condoms on the market.
Beyond7 Ultra Thin Classic straight shape condom. Slightly shorter than standard regular condoms
Base width: 2.0”/51mm
Length: 7.2”/180mm
The thinnest condom makers offer studded condoms for those who love extra stimulation.
Studded along the shaft
Base width: 2.0”/51mm
Length: 7.2”/180mm
Special twisted shape and ribs for sensual friction
Regular length of Trojan condoms, but is 0.25” slimmer at the base than regular Trojan condoms for a snug grip round the shaft.
Base width: 1.75″/44mm
Length: 7.8″/198mm
Durex’s thinnest latex condom
Slightly snugger width and longer length than most regular sizes. Suitable for long and slender guys.
Base width: 2.0”/5.1mm
Length: 7.9”/200mm
Contoured shape for tapered fit around the base and shaft. Is one of the snuggest (and shortest) condoms on the North American market.
Base width: 1.92”/49mm
Length: 6.7”/170mm
This is The smallest condom on the North American market.
Unique shape hugs better around shaft and head
Base width: 1.77”/ 45mm
Head width: 1.92″/ 49mm
Length: 7.0”/ 180mm
Extra ribbed, ultra studded, uniquely shaped.
Uniquely contoured at head for his pleasure (see image here)
Regular condom length but closer fitting shaft and head.
Base width: 1.93”/49mm
Length: 6.69”/ 170mm
4X more lubricant than standard latex condoms.
Thinner than standard condoms with average length.
Base width: 1.9″/50mm
Length: 7.2″/185mm
All other Beyond7 condoms are approximately 2.0 inches base wide. Check out their condom size chart for more detailed measurements on all their products.
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Our size charts are constantly updated, so please join our Facebook, Twitter or RSS feed to keep informed.
The reason so many guys ask, What Condom Size Am I? is because condom sizing and how to measure ourselves is not very clear. There is no such thing as one-size fits every individual or couple.
And yet using the right condom is essential. The wrong size increases the risk of breakage, slippage and discomfort. Experimenting and finding the correct condom is the difference between those who enjoy sex with condoms and those who hate them and use them inconsistently, putting themselves and others at risk of STIs and unwanted pregnancy.
Published with permission from thebadchemicals.com
What Condom Size Am I?
The first thing you need to do is measure the size of your penis. This isn’t hard (but your penis must be to get correct measurements!). There are three main measurements you need to take. First, from the base of your penis which is the part where the condom would stop rolling (no need to put the condom over your testicles!) and measure up to the tip of your penis….This is your length.
Then measure the girth of your penis at the mid-point of the shaft. You can wrap a tape measure around the shaft or you can use a string and then measure the string with a ruler.
Most condom widths are measured by the condom laying flat (it is not the circumference). Condoms are designed to fit securely while forming the body shape. The base width should be less than half the girth of your penis size by about half an inch (13mm). Therefore to know if your girth will fit a condom width simply divide your penis circumference by 2.25 (In this post we explain how we got this formula).
(Most links are internal links to our site. External links to condoms may be affiliate links that earn us a small commission. This is not a company endorsement).
What Sizes Exist?
Now you have the measurements you can go over to our Condom Size Calculator. There you will find measurements for each condom brand and be able to find your size and compare what exactly “Snug” “Regular” and “Large” mean. We also offer updated size charts based on the top sold brands: Trojan Condom, Lifestyles, Durex, Kimono, ONE Condoms and Caution Wear. More brands to come!
The average condom length in North America…
is 7.5″/190.5mm. Since a vast portion of men are between 5.1″ – 6.5″, most do not need to be concern with length. If length is your concern, check out our condom fitting solutions chart for recommendations to specific needs.
Girth or “thickness” is crucial. The average condom is made to fit a 4.8″- 5.2″ erect circumference. In condom terms, that equals approximately 2.0″/50.8mm-2.2″/55.8mm base wide (remember, width is measured by the condom lying flat).
General, rule of thumb: If you measure less than 4.8 inches girth, go with a snugger fit. Fit you are greater than 5.2 inches, select large condoms, such as SKYN Large, Durex XXL, and Magnums.
Shape Matters
However, this does not solve all problems. What if you are skinny and long, short and wide? You will also need to think about shape and material (latex, polyisoprene, etc.), especially if you find you’re in between sizes.
A common complaint is that condoms are too tight around the head. So, many condoms companies have now designed condoms with oversized head room, including flair shape design and extra bulbous head. Here are the top North American brands:
There are two new non-latex options available now. Polyurethane was first introduced by Durex in the 1990s. This material is less elastic than latex and polyisoprene, and is slightly thinner. So it can be ideal for those who prefer less skin-tight condoms that clings to every contour of his tool, and instead prefer a bit of give in the condom.
The most popular polyurethane condom in North America is Trojan Supra.
Polyisoprene is the latest non-latex material for male condoms, introduced by Lifestyles in 2008. This material is more soft, elastic and form-fitting than both polyurethane and latex. This material is ideal because it can stretch more comfortably over shapely parts of the penis. So this may be a better option if you are in between sizes then the uniquely shaped condoms. Polyisoprene is available in North America by Durex Avanti Bare and Lifestyles SKYN.
Practice Makes Perfect!
The best thing to do is keep experimenting to find the best condoms for you (and your partners).
Just make sure you don’t engage in oral or penetrative sex if a condom does not fit! So, firstly, answer the question “What Condom Size Am I?” for yourself and then check against the size charts and get a hold of your best fit.
Let us know if you have any questions at all and we will always do our best to fully answer them. Don’t be embarrassed. Use a fake name if you really need to. We will never judge you for your questions.
Thanks for reading and we hope this article helped.
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According to Global Industry Analysts, Inc. (2010) and others, Durex is the most popular brand of condoms in Europe. Their line offers 9 different latex condoms, with the top choices being Durex Love, Extra Sensitive and Ultimate Feeling. Durex produced the very first male condom to be made of polyurethane, then Durex Avanti BARE was the next non-latex upgrade made of polyisoprene, a synthetic version of latex with the same elasticity, but without the scent or allergies. However, this product has been discontinued and Durex does not offer no latex products at this time.
In 2004, Durex ceased production of condoms containing Nonoxynol-9. Durex also puts a substantial amount of money into sexual wellbeing research and STI prevention programs worldwide.
Reviewing various sources including Undercover Condoms, Condom Choice, Consumer Report, etc. the hot picks of Durex are tied between Durex Love, Extra Sensitive and Ultimate Feeling, but these latexes are likely to change as MicroSheer polyurethane and polyisoprene become more mainstream technology. Durex’s top selling non-latex condom was Avanti BARE.
Durex Love gets its reputation as easy to put on, easy to please. Thinner than standard latex, built with a little extra headroom and length (8.0in/203mm) for somewhat larger than average guys and are specially shaped for easy roll-on. It is made with 25% more lubricant than the standard condom for an extra silky smooth and natural feel. It is a 6 time winner on Condom Depot’s World’s Best Condom Award. Love scores on our personal top list too and is highly recommended: here’s our review.
Durex Extra Sensitive is as thin as you can get with latex condoms at .0019 thickness, which is 20% thinner than standard condoms. It was awarded most reliable and dependable condom in 2005 by Consumer Report Magazine and is a 6 times winner on Condom Depot’s World’s Best Condoms Award.
Durex Ultimate Feeling equals the same thickness and lubrication as Extra Sensitive. The only difference with this pop pick is its textured rib. In 2011, it was rated as one of the top condoms for sensation by Live Strong. If you or your partner enjoy over 58 lines of ribbed stimulation, this condom is a safe choice.
Not so hot:
We found Durex Performax with one of the lowest ratings from Undercover Condoms, Condom Depot and Condomman. Users complain about numbness, taste, smell, and lose of erection. However, it was rated one of the most reliable condoms by Consumer Report Magazine. Not recommended if early ejaculation is not a concern. There are no readily available criticisms about the Durex company. The main criticism we found was by one sex educator and medical research, Dr. Petra Boynton, who argues that the Durex Global Sex Survey lacks ethical validity and academic standards. However, we have not yet found other sources validating her claims. This section is still undergoing research.
Love ’em! This must be one of my favorite condoms. Never breaks. Never slips. And funny enough, according to the Durex website, these are the same size as Durex’s XXL! Oh the strange world of marketing. Which reminds me, Durex also felt the need to give a little gift in each of Love packaging, like a cereal box toy: It’s a stick-on tattoo of a mischievous devil that seems to be impersonating Cupid. Is this suppose to intice kinkiness? I think it’s a lame attempt of “interactive” marketing. Personally, I’ve never found the need for this. Fetishes can be found outside the box. Does anyone disagree?
Anyway, this condom has a minimal oder of latex, it’s smooth and very elastic, making it easy to roll on, and its sensitivity is great- very comparable to any “Ultra Sensitive” brand.
